Cascade Policy Institute

10/16/2026

Oregon spends more per student than 31 other states. So why are our students still struggling to read?

A new OPB investigation exposes a troubling pattern: layers of bureaucracy, political pressures, and shifting priorities while student achievement continues to lag.

More spending and more mandates haven't delivered the results Oregon families deserve.

It's time to put students first—not politics, paperwork, or special interests.

https://bit.ly/4hTtL2p

OPB

Part 2 of OPB’s series on the state’s school system explores how parents and school advocates are looking to other states for ways to change the system from the ground up.

10/16/2026

Oregonians want better roads. But is another gas tax the answer?

As La Grande voters consider a new gas tax, questions about ODOT's budget shortfalls and transportation spending priorities remain.

Cascade has long called for responsible spending and greater accountability.

The difference in La Grande? Voters get a direct say.

Read more from OPB

La Grande’s debate about how to fix its transportation system taps into a much broader, statewide conflict that is shaping an incredibly tight race for Oregon governor.

10/15/2026

From Cascade's founding to building a national powerhouse!

Tracie Sharp helped launch Cascade Policy Institute in 1991 as its founding executive director before transforming State Policy Network into a nationally influential network of state-based policy organizations.

A remarkable legacy of leadership and impact! We were honored to welcome Tracie back to Portland as a featured speaker at Cascade's 35th Anniversary Dinner, celebrating the ideas and vision that continue to shape the future of public policy.

State Policy Network

10/14/2026

Millions spent. But how much is reaching the people who need help?

Oregon continues to pour public dollars into homelessness programs, yet serious questions remain about accountability, results, and whether resources are reaching those most in need.

At Cascade, we believe success should be measured by outcomes—not the size of the budget.

More spending isn't the same as more solutions.

Oregonians deserve to know: Where is the money going, and what results are we getting?

10/12/2026

Ideas matter. But results matter more.

Cascade helped turn education reform into action by advancing Oregon’s landmark 1999 charter-school law—opening the door to more choices, more opportunity, and new possibilities for Oregon families.

That’s what 35 years of ideas in action looks like.

Keep helping make change happen by donating today: https://bit.ly/4hG2ws3

10/12/2026

Changing the name doesn’t change the cost.

10/09/2026

The next 35 years start right here.

At Cascade's 35th anniversary celebration, The Wall Street Journal columnist Kimberley Strassel delivered a compelling reminder that meaningful change often begins at the local level, with people who care enough to get involved.

Joined by Cascade President and CEO John Charles and Board Chairman Bill Conerly, Kimberley helped us celebrate more than a milestone. It was an evening about the ideas, people, and determination that have shaped Cascade's first 35 years and will carry us into the next.

35 years of advancing liberty in Oregon. Here's to what comes next.

Kim Strassel: WSJ
The Wall Street Journal

10/09/2026

Oregon roots. National perspective. And no shortage of opinions.

The Wall Street Journal's Kimberley Strassel returned to her home state to deliver the keynote at Cascade's 35th anniversary dinner, bringing sharp observations, personal stories, and plenty of humor along the way.

Her message was a timely reminder that the decisions shaping our communities are too important to leave to someone else.

Thanks for coming home, Kimberley. You gave us plenty to talk about!

Kim Strassel: WSJ
The Wall Street Journal

10/08/2026

🚨 PUBLIC MEETING TODAY: OREGON’S UNIVERSAL HEALTH PLAN

Oregon’s Universal Health Plan Governance Board is holding a special virtual meeting today, Thursday, October 8, at 8:00 a.m.

Before Oregon commits to a massive new health-care system, taxpayers deserve to see the complete plan and understand exactly what it could cost.

10/08/2026

10.1%. 9.6%. These numbers deserve public scrutiny.

Oregon’s Universal Health Plan Governance Board has modeled a new health-care financing system that includes:

• 10.1% healthcare income tax
• 9.6% employer payroll tax

The question Oregonians should be asking is simple:
What would this mean for your paycheck, your employer, and the cost of doing business in Oregon?

The state is developing the plan now, with lawmakers expected to consider the proposal in 2027.

Oregonians deserve to see the numbers, the assumptions, and the full plan before decisions are made.